Three Things to Protect Your Identity From Scammers

by Kathy Stokes, AARP Fraud Watch Network Data breaches are now so commonplace that it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and powerless. But even if your personal information is out there, you can protect your identity from scammers with these simple but important steps. Rethink Your Passwords: Use unique passwords for each of your online accounts. That way, if one account is hacked, it doesn’t put your other accounts at risk. A good way to manage all of those different passwords is to use a digital password manager. These services can help keep all your passwords secure and help you create strong passwords for each of your online accounts. Set Up Digital Access to Your Financial Accounts: Scammers can easily use your personal data to open up accounts in your name – making it difficult to recover your accounts and hard-earned money. It’s important to set up online access to all of your financial accounts – bank accounts, credit cards, 401(k)s, etc. That way you can regularly monitor the accounts so you can stay up-to-date on all transactions and quickly spot and report any fraudulent activity. Freeze Your Credit: Put a security freeze in place with each of the three major credit reporting bureaus: Experian, Equifax, and Transunion. That way no one can access your credit file or open a new credit account with your information. For a guide to the process, visit www.aarp.org/CreditFreeze. Traditionally there has been a fee for freezing (and unfreezing) your credit, but thanks to legislation passed by Congress in May 2018, the process will now be free as of September 21. When it comes to fraud, vigilance is our number one weapon. You have the power to protect yourself and your loved ones from scams. Please share this alert with friends and family. Spotted a scam?  Tell us about it.  Our scam-tracking map gives you information about the latest scams targeting people in your state.  You’ll also find first-hand accounts from scam-spotters who are sharing their experiences so you know how to protect yourself and your family.

The AARP Fraud Watch Network connects you to the latest information about ID theft and fraud so you can safeguard your personal information and your pocketbook.

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GET HELP:

If you or someone you know has been a victim of identity theft or fraud, contact the AARP Foundation Fraud Fighter Center at 877-908-3360.

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Share this alert with your family and friends so they know how to spot the common strategies scammers use and have the tools they need to defend themselves against their tricks.

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